All-new Lexus RZ 450e electric SUV delivers style and performance
Lexus has been at the forefront of electrified luxury motoring since the launch of the RX 400h hybrid in 2004. Now, all of its expertise and craftsmanship has been brought to the fore with the introduction of the Lexus RZ 450e. The RZ is an all-new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) with a distinctive SUV configuration. It boasts of all the advantages of a BEV, plus some technological and convenience advancements that ensure that the RZ 450e is one desirable vehicle, whether you’re an enthusiast driver or a comfort-oriented passenger.
The RZ is the first Lexus developed from the ground up as a BEV, and as such it takes advantage of all the packaging efficiency inherent to an electric vehicle. The RZ is powered by two e-Axles, separate compact motor units used at the front and rear to deliver highly responsive acceleration and handling. The RZ’s powerful lithium-ion battery is integrated into the chassis beneath the cabin floor, freeing up interior space via a long wheelbase, and also contributing to a lower center of gravity.
The Lexus e-Axles bring a new level of power to this SUV. The front motor delivers 150kW and the rear 80kW, for a total 230kW output (312ps). With a capacity of 71.4kWh, the RZ can run for up to 435km on a single charge. The on-board charger can “fill up” the RZ in 6.5 hours with a three-phase power supply or 10 hours on a single-phase line. A DC fast charger can charge up the batteries to 80% in about 30 minutes. Lexus guarantees that the battery will retain at least 70% of its capacity after 10 years, and is optimistic that after 10 years, the battery pack will still have at least 90% capacity.
RZ benefits from the instantaneous response of the twin e-Axles. Combined, the two make up the Direct4 all-wheel drive system. The system varies the torque split between the front and rear, and can make adjustments in milliseconds, faster than any mechanical system. For example, when the vehicle is starting off, up to 80% of the total torque can be delivered at the rear axle, for enhanced traction. In straightline driving, the split can vary from 70:30 to 40:60 for better efficiency. And in turn, more torque can be generated at the rear, with the benefit of confident handling and better acceleration.
You may notice that the RZ looks markedly different from previous Lexus SUVs. The RZ shares a similar front end with the new RX midsize SUV. The “Seamless e-Motion” design theme sees the trademark Lexus spindle grille integrated more smoothly into the front fascia—a look that signals a futuristic, performance automobile. The vehicle’s smooth, slippery (0.28 Coefficient of drag) profile contributes to more rear head room (+67mm), while horizontal elements in the door area highlight the long wheelbase. Indeed, the rear wheels have been pushed back to give the car a sportier stance. Size-wise, the RZ slots in between the compact NX and midsize RX SUV models. RZ measures 4805mm long x 1895mm wide, with a 2850mm wheelbase, and short front and rear overhangs.
Lexus is emphasizing its “confidence, control, and comfort” mantra when it comes to the RZ’s driving characteristics. This means that the car should respond as the driver intends, and the RZ’s electric powertrain enhances this quality. Lexus promises a linear, refined responsiveness at all times, leading to “The Natural” performance concept targeted by chief engineer Takashi Watanabe. He said: “The RZ has been developed with the aim of creating a uniquely Lexus BEV that feels secure to ride in, is pleasing to the touch and is exhilarating to drive. Our vision is to use electrification technology as a means to enhance fundamental vehicle performance, so that we can continue to pursue driving pleasure for all future generations.”
A highly rigid body, assembled via laser welding, structural adhesives and short-pitch welding, is the ideal platform. The Lexus RZ uses lightweight steel in its roof, and front and center pillars, while the hood is aluminum to reduce weight. Low noise and vibration levels, long a Lexus advantage, is guaranteed by liberal use of damping materials in such areas such as the large roof, pillars, cowl, and wheel arches. The Lexus’ sound system also provides active noise cancellation to further reduce unwanted sound.
If creating a lot of (desirable) noise is what you’re after, the Lexus RZ obliges with its 10-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system. A Harman discrete amplifier allows playback of high-resolution sound sources (96kHz/24bit). 9cm Unity speakers, 8×9 inch woofers and a 22.4cm subwoofer all provide crystal clear audiophile-quality sound.
The audio system is merely a part of the RZ’s cockpit, designed with Lexus’ Tazuna concept, an intuitive and ergonomic layout. The driver can make adjustments to driving, as well as secondary functions with only small movements of the hands and eyes. The 14-inch center multimedia display, multi-information display and head-up display provide all needed information at a glance.
Driver and passengers benefit from the bright and open cabin. A thinner, lower instrument panel adds to the spacious feel, while the center console has a slim, elegant profile. There’s plenty of storage space and power points, from storage boxes, cupholders, 12-volt power outlet and available wireless charging tray. The “Omotenashi” welcome system includes animated welcome sequence, and selectable ambient lighting. The rear seatback can recline in two stages. Ultrasuede upholstery or Synthetic Leather are the environmentally-friendly options for the interior trim. The Lexus Climate Concierge system can detect which seats are occupied and adjust the airconditioning for optimal comfort. Nanoe X technology emits microscopic water particles with hydroxy radicals to help inhibit the spread of viruses, bacteria, pollen, and mold. They also keep bad odors at bay and help keep hair and skin moisturized.
Interior color options include Orange upholstery (a shade of blue) with black trim and Solis White trim for the interior door shoulders and armrests. The second uses hazel seat coverings with black trim, and the third pairs grayscale upholstery and black trim. The console can be finished in Tsuyasumi ornamentation. This gives the effect of a charcoal finish with shiny veining like a natural cinder block. The effect is created by combining numerous delicate layers of film, done by Lexus’ Takumi craftspeople Safety is paramount with the Lexus RZ. Brake force front and rear are delivered by high-performance pump motor. The brake pressure can be independently regulated front and rear, adding to stability. The Lexus Safety System+ includes a pre-collision system that detects potential hazards, including motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, automatic high beam, and automatic hazard lights for braking all aid in both every day driving and emergency situations. Rear cross-traffic alert, advanced auto parking, and safe exit assist for the doors all add an extra measure of safety. 360-degree monitor includes an under-floor see-through view that shows the driving surface under the car and wheel positions.
The Lexus RZ is available in Aether Metallic, inspired by blue skies, and striking Sonic Copper. It’s also available in Sonic Chrome, Sonic Quartz, Sonic Iridium and Graphite Black. The sonic shades use an advanced paint technology in which pigment particles and metal flakes are highly compressed into micro-thin layers, contributing to deeper, more lustrous finish and stronger light and shade contrasts. Bitone design with contrasting black finish on the front, hood, pillars, and roof, is available. RZ retails at P4,828,000, in only one variant at introduction.
Visit Lexus Manila and Lexus at Mitsukoshi to see the all-new electric RZ 450e. For more information, visit the Lexus website at lexus.com.ph or visit its social media pages on Facebook (Lexus Philippines) and Instagram (@lexusph). Updates and premium services are available through the MyLexus app for both Android and iOS users. Mitsukoshi BGC is located at 8th Ave. corner 36th St. Grand Central Park, North BGC, Taguig.
